Welp, I'm not good at explaining things, but I can try.
Well, number one is easy.
When you write a message, there is a box below the message window asking if you want to Save a copy in your outbox. You have to check it and then it will be stored in your inbox.
To retrieve it you simply go on: My Messages> Messages (Next to Actions and Preferences) and then on Inbox. And don't worry, I'm sure the Admin got the message.
If you forget to check off the box, it's unfortunately too late.
Number 2.
Just here:
https://rwbyfanon.com/index.php?board=15.0In my opinion, a little unclearly shown, but you just have to go on character creation and throw the character in there. But this is really only for when the character is ready and waiting for approval. Otherwise just put him in "WIP characters" so that you can still work on him and also get some tips from others.
Number 3.
Pretty much a learn by doing thing. There are a few who have never or very little RPGed before, so you should not worry too much.
And with all the Topics and Threads it's just one thing you get used to over time. Let me try to summarize it short and roughly.
You see all the different compartments on the "main page". These are bringing you to individual separate pages, each of which has further paths to other pages. Sounds confusing, but since everything is relatively well-ordered here, it works well. Most of it takes place in the RPG part of the forum (what a surprise)
Entering Threads is easy.
Let's take Beacon Academy as an example. Simply on The Vale region and then on the topic Beacon Academy (or you take the direct link) From there you look for a chat you want to join. It is important to ensure that this is also open to all and possibly active.
Hope this information helped a bit, Good Luck!